Likud Seeks Disqualification of Joint List, Citing Arab Vote's Decisive Power

The Likud party has formally requested the disqualification of the Joint List, a major Arab political alliance, from the upcoming 26th Knesset elections. Professor Youssef Jabareen, head of the Joint List, responded by stating that the move reveals Prime Minister Netanyahu's fear of the political power held by over 1.25 million Arab voters and his anxiety about losing power.

Jabareen characterized the disqualification attempt as a dangerous escalation in incitement and an effort to delegitimize Arab citizens and progressive Jewish forces. He asserted that the issue extends beyond a single electoral list, representing an attempt to exclude Arab populations from political engagement and invalidate their representation and stances.

"We will not change our national and humanitarian positions against the occupation, against wars, and for a just peace, nor will we alter our stance for full equality, civil and national," Jabareen declared. He vowed to confront the disqualification attempt with dignity and strength, emphasizing the Joint List's continued role in the country's political landscape.

Jabareen further stated that the collective strength of the Arab public, alongside progressive Jewish forces, can be a decisive factor in shifting the balance of power in the elections.